Having lived in Blackpool until recently,this is really good news.In my old job the horrors of trying to make Manchester airport in time was always a worry,there was always some sort of delay due to accidents or roadworks. The North West needs an alternative option,it will make life a lot easier for people who live north of Preston. KLM uk did a small survey once when it realised a lot more people prefered to fly with them rather than B.A.
Just hope airlines now look at this option.It did have 3 runways but I don't know if all of them are still operational or not.
Good luck to the new owners.